Refrigerant is essential to your residential HVAC system. It’s responsible for absorbing heat from indoor air and transporting it outside. However, the refrigerant can leak out of the AC if any coils, hoses, or fittings are damaged. Knowing the signs of a leak will help you know when to call an HVAC technician for help before the issue worsens. 

3 Signs Your HVAC Refrigerant Is Leaking

1. Frozen AC Coils

The HVAC refrigerant travels through a series of coils where it goes through the cycles of absorbing heat, releasing it, and cooling down. Inefficient heat absorption causes condensation to form on the coils, which will eventually freeze.

When the unit is turned off, the ice around the coils melts, possibly dripping onto the unit’s electrical wiring and other internal components. Water-damaged AC parts could malfunction, resulting in costly repairs.

2. Less Efficient Cooling

If there’s not enough refrigerant in the air conditioner, the unit can’t efficiently remove heat inside your home. The unit will have to work harder and use more power to reach the desired temperature. 

This problem often leads to untimely breakdowns or higher utility bills. It’s best to have an HVAC technician check the air conditioner as soon as possible to avoid such problems. They'll determine if the lack of cool air is due to a refrigerant leak or another issue.

3. Hissing Sounds

When the refrigerant leaks out from small cracks or holes in the line, it can create a hissing sound due to the pressure pushing the fluid out. It isn't safe to inspect the leak yourself. Inhaling the refrigerant fumes can be toxic. Its side effects can cause nausea and breathing difficulties. It’s much safer to have a professional HVAC technician deal with the issue. They’ll have the proper safety equipment for handling the substance. 

Have a toxic refrigerant leak handled by the professional HVAC contractors at Alleghany Highlands Mechanical. These licensed and insured technicians will restore your home's comfort and maximize your HVAC system's overall efficiency. Their team provides 24/7 emergency HVAC services in Covington, VA, so you can rely on them to fix inconvenient breakdowns. For a free estimate, visit their website or call (540) 965-0767.